Certified translation represents a crucial service in the legal and commercial context, as it ensures the accuracy and authenticity of a translated document.
This type of translation is essential to ensure the correctness of documents such as contracts, legal agreements, tax returns and judicial documents, as an incorrect interpretation could have significant consequences.
This article analyzes the characteristics of certified translations in Spain and France, comparing them with the Italian system, and highlights the peculiarities and differences in the legalization processes of translations in these three countries.
How certified translations work in Spain
In Spain, certified translations, known as “traducciones juradas”, are officially recognized and legally valid only if carried out by a sworn translator.
A sworn translator is a professional authorized to carry out this activity as he is registered in a special register, following the passing of a specific exam announced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation.
The sworn translator is required to respect specific standards of quality and precision in the translation of the document, and to sign a declaration of conformity which attests to his professionalism and the truthfulness of the translation carried out. The signature of the sworn translator gives the translation legal validity, guaranteeing its authenticity and the correct interpretation of the content of the original document.
In Spain, certified translations are often required for documents such as diplomas, degree certificates, criminal certificates, marriage certificates, birth certificates, death certificates, contracts and legal documents.
The translated document must be issued in paper format, with the signature of the sworn translator printed and the official stamp of the relevant professional register.
How certified translations work in France
In France, certified translations are those translations that have been carried out by a sworn translator, called “traducteur assermenté” or “traducteur expert judiciaire”.
Please note, however, that the fact that a translator is “sworn” does not mean that he has a specific ability to translate legal documents, but only that he has an appropriate and recognized diploma at Bac+5 level and that he has been sworn in before a Court of Appeal. The Bac+5 level is a qualification that requires five years of university education after the baccalauréat, i.e. after the high school diploma. It generally corresponds to a Master 2 (M2) or a grande école diploma, which are internationally recognized academic qualifications and comparable to an Italian Master’s degree.
Sworn translators may therefore be specialized in various fields that may be necessary for certain translations or may not have a particular specialization.
The sworn translator is required to respect specific standards of quality and precision in the translation of the document, and to sign a declaration of conformity which attests to his professionalism and the truthfulness of the translation carried out. The signature of the sworn translator gives the translation legal validity, guaranteeing its authenticity and the correct interpretation of the content of the original document.
In France, the translated document must be issued in paper format, with the signature of the sworn translator printed and the official stamp of the relevant professional register. Furthermore, the sworn translator may be called to appear in court to certify the validity of the translation, if necessary.
Differences between certified translations in Italy, Spain and France
Although certified translations in Italy, Spain and France have some similarities, there are some key differences in the process of legalizing translations in these countries:
In Italy, the figure of the public notary is not required for the legalization of certified translations. However, translations must be carried out by a sworn translator authorized by the court and the document must be notarized by a judicial officer.
In Spain, as in Italy, the figure of the public notary is not required for the legalization of certified translations. Sworn translations are created by sworn translators recognized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation. Also in this case, the signature and stamp of the sworn translator give the translation a legal value.
In France, certified translations are carried out by sworn translators, called “traducteurs assermentés” or “traducteurs-experts judiciaires”. These figures are sworn in by a Court of Appeal and must possess an appropriate and recognized diploma at Bac+5 level. It is important to underline that being a sworn translator does not necessarily imply specialization in the translation of legal documents, but indicates that the translator has an appropriate qualification. Therefore, sworn translators in France may be specialized in various sectors or may not have a specific specialization.
LingoYou certified translations
Don’t leave your business or your reputation in the hands of anyone who isn’t expert in the certified translation industry. Choose LingoYou professionals for a certified translation of superior quality and completely reliable.
Our team of experienced certified translators can offer certified translations for a wide range of documents, including legal documents, contracts, certificates and many more. We only use cutting-edge translation tools and methods to ensure the highest accuracy and best possible quality.
By relying on LingoYou, you can count on a sworn translation carried out in an accurate and timely manner. Furthermore, we offer advantageous and transparent rates to offer you the best service at an affordable price.
Do not hesitate to contact us to find out more about our sworn translation services and how we can help you achieve your goals. Let yourself be guided by our experience and expertise to ensure high-level certified translations.
A.D
Marketing Team LingoYou
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